The Importance of Using a Compatible Lamp As a Nail Technician
When it comes to gel nail services, choosing the perfect shade is only part of the equation. The UV/LED lamp you use is just as crucial not only for achieving flawless, long-lasting results but also for ensuring the safety of your clients.
Using the wrong lamp can lead to under-cured gel, which increases the risk of lifting, chipping, and potential allergic reactions. On the other hand, over-curing can make the gel too brittle or damage the natural nail. Understanding lamp compatibility ensures consistent, high-quality results for both you and your clients.
At HONA, we understand the importance of using a compatible lamp with your gel system. That’s why we’ve tested our gel system in popular nail lamps, ensuring manufacturer-approved compatibility for the best results. This means you can continue using an existing compatible lamp, saving money and reducing waste while having complete peace of mind that your setup is safe and effective.
1. Wavelength – The Science Behind Curing
Each gel polish formula is designed to cure within a specific wavelength range. If the lamp doesn’t emit light in that range, the gel won’t cure properly.
For HONA’s gel system, the ideal wavelength range is 365-400 nanometers (nm), known as the UV-A range. Using a lamp outside this range can result in patchy, soft, or weakened gel layers, leading to premature wear.
2. Irradiance Value – The Power Behind the Cure
Irradiance refers to the intensity of the UV/LED light emitted by the lamp, measured in mW/cm² (milliwatts per square centimeter).
Different brands require different irradiance values for proper curing. If the value is too low, the gel stays tacky and under-cured. If it is too high, the gel may over-cure, causing brittleness or discomfort for your client.
Checking the recommended irradiance value for your gel system ensures an efficient, even cure every time.
3. LED Placement – Even and Effective Curing
LED placement inside the lamp directly impacts how evenly your gel cures. Some lamps only have LEDs at the top, while others include them on the sides for full coverage.
A high-quality lamp should have LED lights positioned to cover all angles of the nail, ensuring an even cure with no weak spots.
A mirrored interior can help distribute light more effectively, preventing under-cured areas that could lead to lifting or peeling.
More LEDs do not necessarily mean better curing. A well-designed lamp ensures each nail gets equal exposure, reducing the risk of weak spots.
4. Curing Time – Getting It Just Right
Each gel polish brand has its own recommended curing time, and using the wrong lamp can throw this off.
A compatible UV/LED lamp ensures the correct curing time, helping prevent over-curing, which can make the gel brittle, or under-curing, which can lead to lifting and peeling.
If clients consistently experience issues like chipping or premature wear, it could be due to incorrect curing times rather than the polish itself.
What About Wattage?
Wattage is often misunderstood when it comes to UV/LED lamps. While it measures power consumption, it does not determine the quality of light emitted.
Many assume that higher wattage means better curing, but in reality, wavelength, irradiance, and LED placement are far more important factors.
Relying on wattage alone can result in inconsistent curing and unnecessary damage to the gel or natural nail. Always check the full specifications to ensure your lamp is truly compatible with your gel polish.
How to perform a cure test
Ensuring your gel or builder gel cures correctly is essential for both longevity and safety. A simple cure test helps you confirm that your chosen lamp is fully curing the product without under-curing or over-curing. The process involves applying a thin layer of gel to a clear tip, curing it for the recommended time, and then checking for flexibility and proper curing. If the gel remains sticky or too soft, it may not be fully cured, whereas brittleness can indicate over-curing.
For a detailed step-by-step guide, check out our full blog post How to Safely Perform a Cure Test.
For the best and safest cure, we recommend using HONA's Cube Lamp, designed to work seamlessly with our gel system.
The Bottom Line
For professional nail technicians, using the right UV/LED lamp is key to providing a high-quality, long-lasting, and safe manicure.
To get the best results with HONA’s gel system, always use a lamp that meets the following criteria:
- Wavelength: 365-400 nm (UV-A range)
- Proper Irradiance Value: Ensures full curing without overexposure
- Even LED Placement: Full coverage for uniform curing
- Correct Curing Time: Prevents lifting, peeling, and brittleness
Choosing the right lamp enhances the longevity of your work and ensures your clients receive the best results every time.